[quote name='raindog'][quote name='AllhopeisgoneMNTWINS'][quote name='raindog']Or we could remain level-headed. There is no evidence that the Braves were willing to give up much of value to the Twins for Span. Hopefully the Reds are willing.[/QUOTE]

Im really just not that interested in trading with the Reds. Im hoping The Rays...but they have a pretty smart front office and likely will say no to the Twins demands for Span similar to the Braves.[/QUOTE]

I would be happy with the Rays, as well. But like you siad, they have a very smart front office. Probably best in baseball. I don't see us getting the better end of that deal.[/QUOTE]

I honestly think if we trade Span most people are going to be upset at what we receive for him. Right now the Twins I have heard are asking for a haul for Span.

The Braves don't have to be out of the running with the signing of Upton. They still have an OF need and value is still value. Does it knock down the need for an OF'er? Yes but Span would still be a nice leadoff hitter fit for the Braves... Upton is not a leadoff guy.

The other side of the coin obviously. It takes one option off the table for all the other teams that could use a CF.

Yes... I'd like some of that Atlanta pitching but as names come off the board... Theoretically... Spans value should increase.

Theoretically means nothing because I'm making these theories from North Dakota.

Alas we will never know what was asked for and what was offered. These kind of details often get leaked, but never with the Twins. I'd still like to know what the snag was in the Span to the Reds deal last July.

It's also been mentioned that ATL may still be in the market for Span even though Upton was signed. It sounds unlikely, but given Span's team friendly deal, he could be attractive enough to make it a Span for middle IF deal instead. ATL has some stellar young SS.

This is no reason to hit the button. The Braves are out for Span but Upton is now off the market, so the other teams interested in Upton are now more interested in Span. The number one thing the team needs is a true Ace. A number one starter is essential. I am on the sign Grienke bandwagon. I hope people jump on this wagon and get the cheapest GM in the business to go out and sign Grienke or he is going to pick up 3 or 4 bottom of the rotation guys and we will lose 90 plus again. An ace for the staff turns this from a 90+ loss to a 90+ win team. It is sooooo important to have a true ace on the staff. We cant let TR get away with 5 mid level starters or we will never compete in our division.

The fact that Upton was an FA (along w Bourn) hurt Span's trade value. That Upton signed with a potential Span suitor was always a given! Another way to look at it is that those other teams in search of a CFer have fewer options. Span's value is at the very least nebulous.